And for most, it wouldn’t change much. Businesses can speak other languages. Schools would continue teaching foreign languages.

But Shoemaker says restricting county business to English would help with “assimilation. Immigrants have come here and we’ve all come together under this one language,” Shoemaker said.

“English ought to be the language,” said Les Preble.

Most here have never thought otherwise, although some debate a need for an ordinance.

“I don’t know why you have to make it the official language,” said Cal Bloom.

“Nowadays everything’s got to be in writing, otherwise somebody’s going to twist it around to all kinds of different directions,” Preble said.

“The first language of Carroll County should be English and the second language should be Spanish,” said Cathy Brumfield, of Westminster.

If approved, the ordinance would not trump state law, and would not apply to health or emergency services.

“If somebody calls 9-1-1 and they’re speaking Spanish, we’re going to respond to that call,” Shoemaker said. ”We’re not going to leave somebody hanging because they’re not speaking the English language.”

Even as most do.

If Carroll County’s commissioners approve the ordinance, it would join Frederick and Queen Anne’s counties in declaring English the official language.

Alex DeMetrick

Alex DeMetrick has been a general assignment reporter with WJZ Eyewitness News since September 1984.
Alex began his journalism career in California.
Alex has received many awards from United Press International and The Associated Press. He...